For Dartmouth, I was lucky enough to interview Chara Lyons. She is so inspiring and dedicated her time to write these amazing responses for me even when she was busy with a podcast! I found so many things in common with her story and loved to share it with you guys! Thank you Chara, I love your kindness in helping others!
What makes Dartmouth so special to you? was it your first choice and your dream school?
"Dartmouth College is a community that is centered around ideas, curiosity, and kindness. I think the voices of Dartmouth are powerful because they aren’t sourced from one place but a combination of experiences. As a freshman I have experienced the many quirky and dope traditions Dartmouth has to offer, I feel welcomed and proud to be apart of the Class of 2023. At Dartmouth, I can explore the many intersections within my identity. I think being a person of color at an elite institution in this country has its unique challenges. I am proud to be a first-generation college student and a part of programs such as FYSEP (first-year student enrichment program) and to be able to be apart of research as a freshman. Dartmouth has always been and will always be my first choice dream school."
What was your reaction when you opened your acceptance?
"I opened my acceptance in my school’s college office with two counselors and two friends. It was intimate and scary, but I was thankful to have people who cared about me around. I knew regardless of the outcome I was supported and knew my worth. I think it's important for students to know their worth coming into the college process as well as after. When the time hit for me to open the decision portal I was shaking so much. One of my counselors had to create a new password for me, as I couldn't type on the keyboard. When I was opening up the update in the portal I was scared at first and prayed, then opened it. I screamed, I saw on the screen congratulations, I just felt a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders."
Personally, would you recommend morning or night classes?
"I would recommend taking morning classes. I like to get started on my day early. Most extracurriculars are active in the evenings and I study best in the evenings. It depends on what classes you would like to take and what schedule you are comfortable with. Just listen to yourself, and know your limits."
What kind of classes would you highly recommend students to take in high school before going off to college?
"Anything that interests you in high school you should pursue. Colleges want to see that you are studying topics in highschool that interest you and show you as a person who challenges themselves. It definitely won't hurt to take an AP Calculus course or AP English course in preparation for college. You should take advantage of the AP courses given and challenge yourself with the opportunities given. I came from a low-income school with not as many resources as my peers, but the good thing is that colleges like Dartmouth view you in the context of where you come from. They will not expect you to have something that was not offered to you. One thing about college is you have the power in your education. Dartmouth commits to you once they accept you. I found that regardless of your level in any area they are very supportive in resources and classes."
Were you awarded financial aid? If yes, how would you rate the financial aid package given? Was it able to remove some financial pressure?
"I was awarded a very generous financial aid package, it removed a lot of the financial pressure. I applied Early decision and I am a Quest Bridge Scholar, yet even from my other peers, I have heard of Dartmouth to be very generous with its aid."
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